>The IntroHey y'all. If you couldn't tell, this quest will be taking place in the well known DC Comics universe. Here there be gods and monsters, magicians and aliens, and even a clown or two. But bear in mind that due to various time travel related and or multiversal shenanigans, the DC world is ridiculously complex as a whole. So I'll be running a very streamlined version of it. And to be up front about it, it will likely be shaped by my own likes, dislikes, and biases.Oh, and aforementioned shenanigans won't be making an appearance.Mostly.

>The RulesI will write up the life of our young hero Morgan Barret, a high school student who has just truly begun his career as a superhero in Gotham City as Gray Ghost, you will be given prompts to direct him.Some things will require a dice roll to determine success or failure or something else entirely. Write In's are absolutely encouraged but I reserve the right to torpedo anything.

The voting period will last 20 minutes after the prompts are given. I will then announce the voting closed and write up the chosen response.

>The DiceWe will be using 1d100 ninety percent of the time here. Best of three. We might use something else when applicable. I'll be running with a loose sort of degrees of success/failure thing here so no real DCs.

>The Pastebinhttps://pastebin.com/hUhuBkxcHere's where the info on mechanics are, along with a chart of your current social links.

>The Twitterhttps://twitter.com/SleepyQMFollow me here for updates on runtimes and whatnot.

>The Archiveshttp://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive.html?tags=SleepyQMHere's the collection of past threads. Give the ones you like a thumbs up, helps let me know I'm doing it right.

>>2184021It just hit you know how many times you were close to death tonight. Any one of Man-Bat's claw swipes could've gotten lucky, you've noticed you have a hard time staying all smokey when you get distracted. Then there's the massive amount of fire you dealt with. Firefly needs a new gimmick. You're over the whole pyromania thing.

And there's also Freeze. You were halfway dispersed when he froze your ass. Not a good sign for future encounters. And oh yeah. Man-Bat's little sonic screech really fucked your night up. It's like he hit you right in your core. A real gut punch. And let's not forget your little episode. You still can't remember what the face looked like. His eyes...

"-ask. But he's no doubt moved her to a secure location by now. But if anyone can find her, Batman can. Morgan?"

The puddle your standing in reflects your image perfectly now that the rain has stopped falling. You really do look like some sorta phantom. Your goggles create two reflective circles upon your face. Empty eyes.

"Morgan!"

"Huh? Yeah, um. Black Mask has Freeze's wife."

Robin raises an eyebrow at you while he checks his utility belt. "I wasn't expecting you to be so lukewarm about this. You okay? It's been a long night."

It takes longer than you'd like to answer. "Yeah man. Like you said, it's been a long night. Let get offa this roof, I've got friggin rainwater in my boxers."

You and Robin don't say much to each other on your rappel down. You don't know if it's because he's tired or if he just doesn't buy that you're okay. Doesn't matter right now, you guess. There's still more to do after tonight. When you both reach ground level you're just in time to see Batman load up Freeze into the back of the Batmobile. But it's a different one. New version? Or just a variant? Whoever he is, Batman must be loaded. Or a good thief. Or both.

>>2184026"Get in." Are the only words he spares the two of you as he hops into the vehicles driver seat.

"Wait a sec, there's still the other cured civilians." You jerk a thumb back towards the other building.

"Batgirl and Artemis will ensure they're protected until paramedics arrive. I've already contacted the GCPD and they're on their way." You sigh. He never leaves much room for anything else to be said. Walking up to the side of the souped up car you see two seats left, not one. Huh. No backseat for you this time. Guess he's warming up to you? It's probably your imagination. You and Robin practically fall into your seats and you find it hard not to fall asleep on the incredibly smooth ride to the police station.

Robin makes no such move to resist though. He's snoring softly by the time you reach Five Points. Almost there. Batman barely slows as he comes to the GCPD Headquarters. He parks smooth and slick in an alleyway right next to the headquarters and all three of you grapnel your way up. Figures that Robin would be able to wake up at a moments notice. The roof of the building is pretty much what you'd expect, safety railing and all. But what you didn't expect, is that this is where the famous Bat-symbol is projected. You had no idea. It can't too much of a secret though.

The roof of the building is pretty much what you'd expect, safety railing and all. But what you didn't expect, is that this is where the famous Bat-symbol is projected. You had no idea. It can't too much of a secret though. You all silently approach the projector and through the moonlight you see a tall figure standing next to it. Smoke flowing from his mouth and hand.

You can tell right away that this is the guy in charge. He's a slightly older guy. You might guess early fifties but you're not willing to underestimate the stress of being a cop in Gotham. He's got copper colored hair, and a thin band of grey going around his head. And a big mustache only a cop would grow. When he notices you all, he adjusts his glasses and regards Batman differently than any other person you've seen up until now. Like an equal.

"Freeze is ready for incarceration. Though I would like to speak with you on his motives in greater detail."

"Alright, fine. You can give me the details while I get started and the massive stack of paperwork you've made for me." The Commissioner's eyes look over Robin as he tries his best to stand up straight. And he just sighs.

"Jesus kid, you need to have a medic look you over. You could have an infection, god only knows what was on Langstrom's claws." He adjusts his glasses. Looking more like stern dad than a cop.

"No need. We've got a real good doctor on call."

He sighs again. "Whatever you say kid."

Then his eyes finally stop on you. He looks you up and down even leans in a little before turning to Batman again. "Really Batman? Another kid? I get it. Robin has a purpose with you but then you brought in this Batgirl, I still don't approve of that. And now him?" He gestures at you with his pipe, looking as incredulous as can be.

>"Hey, Batman had nothing to do with why or whether or not I do this.">"You Gordon? How's officer Lenny doing?">"Whatever, I wanna know what you guys are gonna do about Black Mask.">"Please, I'm better equipped than the cops."

>>2184096A frown creases your features underneath the mask but you just let the Commissioner's disapproval slide off of you. Really, you think the only reason that annoyed is because he assumed Batman could be the only reason you chose this. Whatever. You decide to focus on something more important as events form months ago now cross your mind.

"You Gordon? Commissioner?"

He cocks an eyebrow at you. "That's what it says on my badge. I've been in the position for about a year now."

"I helped out one of your guys a while ago. Lenny. Uh, Leonard was his name. He was in deep with Anarky and his crew. Said you could help him. Did you?"

"That was you? Yeah, Officer Yates had to take his family and move upstate for a while but they were fine while Anarky's plans were dealt with and his crew was mopped up off the streets." Gordon takes a moment to take a puff from his pipe and looks at you a little differently then before. "I should thank you. I probably never would've known about that if you hadn't sent him my way. So, thank you."

"Thanks from a cop. Well, shit. I was happy to help. Lenny got a raw deal." Your goggles then silently alert you to an incoming message from Batgirl.

>Done transporting civilians. Returning to the Batcave.

Looks like everything went about as well as you could hope. Though the battle may not be over for the cured civilians. "When you draw your attention away from the message Gordon and Batman are talking again.

"And Fries claims that Sionis had Killer Moth kidnap his wife? The psychopath hasn't moved from his maximum security holding in Blackgate. But career criminals like him always have their ways of getting things done from the inside of a cell." Gordon blows a ring of smoke before continuing. "And he hired Firefly as well? We still have him in a high priority cell. He may know more."

"I'll question him later. For now, other matters require my attention." Bats hands Freeze over to Gordon and he just accepts him with a slight grimace on his face.

"Yeah well, I'm not stickin' around for your disappearing act this time. Hopefully I won't see you again tonight."

>>2184200Gordon lets that be the final word and he slips into the stairwell leading back down into the headquarters with Freeze in tow. All three of you quickly hop back down into the ready and waiting Batmobile and Batman takes off. Robin sleeping like a baby again. But you're still resisting the powerful urge to yawn. "You can drop me off at Gran'ts Gym. I'll make my way home from there."

"Were heading back to the Batcave for now." And of course after that declaration, silence.

"Uh, any particular reason you need me to tag along?"

"We'll discuss it when we arrive."

God. It's like trying to hold a conversation with a fucking bat shaped wall. Shrugging. You settle into your seat and try to fend off sleep for a bit longer. But after a turn, Batman swivels into an alley and with a button press, a brick wall slides open to reveal some kind of pathway. Similar to the underground at the Gym. And with the oddly soothing rhythm of the passing lights you drift off.

-----

You practically jolt awake at the mechanical hiss of the Batmobile's doors opening. You and Robin shuffle out and you're met with the incredibly surreal Batcave again. You don't think you could ever get used to a place like this. It just feels so far from reality. Even now. Batman bids you follow him with a wave of his hand and not knowing what this is about, you just follow.

All three of you arrive back at the Batcomputer and you see Artemis and Batgirl already here. And they look no better than you or Robin. But they're here. Batman takes center stage between the five of you and Looks at each of you for a while before speaking. "After deliberation, and speaking to both Robin and Batgirl. I've come to a decision. If you're going to fight this fight, this war, we're going to continue to work together as a team from time to time. And that requires trust."

Batman hands reach under and to the back of his cowl, slowly removing it... "I know who you are. So know who I am."

When the mask finally comes off. You can't believe who your'e looking at, let alone that he even took the mask off at all.

>"Friggin Bruce Wayne is Batman?! Where's the hidden camera? This ain't funny.">"You know what, that actually makes a lot of sense.">"Holy shit! How do you know you can trust us with this? Trust me?">"Write In?

>>2184265For a moment, you're stunned. You glance over to Blondie, and she's equally speechless. And you even had your suspicions that she knew who he was given that he's been helping her out since she ran away from home. But now that you really think about it. Is this really all that surprising? You always knew that Batman had to be someone with a massive bank account or maybe even working for someone with a massive bank account.

"You know what? This actually makes a whole lot of sense." Bruce just raises an eyebrow so you continue. "All this equipment had to come from somewhere. And you probably own the land this cave is under don't you? And all that shit about Loosey Brucey. You just want people to think you're irresponsible, don't you?"

Bruce sets his cowl down on the console of the Batcomputer. Smirking ever so slightly. "You're reminding me of Barbara's first reaction."

The redhead just kind of laughs sheepishly. "But seriously man, that cover is kind of perfect. I mean who the hell could even prove it if they suspected you?"

"No one." He replies quickly. "I made sure of that. Artemis?"

Blondie just shakes her head. "I wouldn't believe it if I wasn't looking at it. You put on a really good act. A minute ago I thought the thing Bruce Wayne was good for was spending his parents money."

"Then it's all going according to plan." He says simply. How someone could be so okay with his whole city, and anyone that knows of him thinking he's a wasteful good for nothing is beyond you. "Now, I want to make a few things clear. The cave is our base of operations. You may come here for case work, medical attention, or anything else the facilities can help with. Beyond that... be responsible. And I have someone to introduce you to."

It's only now that you notice the older man in the impeccable suit coming down the stairs nearby, food platter in one hand. "Morgan, Artemis, this is Alfred. He's family."

"And he keeps this place up and running." Robin adds.

The old guy serves what you assume is Bruce's dinner and bows to you all. "Master Grayson's simplification of my responsibilities is nevertheless accurate. While in the cave, merely call upon me if you need something, children." Holy shit, Batman has a british butler. "Speaking of which, follow me Master Grayson. We'll get those wounds cleaned and dressed. You too young miss."

Artemis blinks in surprise but complies with the butler, leaving the three of you alone. Bruce has a seat in front of the Batcomputer while Barbara makes for a nearby platform. "Oh yes. And our houseguest would be pleased to see you Morgan, she's in the guest wing."

>"Oh? Guess I'll go see this mystery guest then.">"Hey, Barbara wait up!">"So, what're we gonna do about Freeze's wife? Sionis can't keep getting away with this shit.">"And I almost gave you shit earlier about being cold. Sorry, Bruce.">Write In?

>>2184446"Oh? Guess I better not keep this mystery guest waiting then." You pull down your mask and hood, leaving your goggles to dangle around your neck only to take a single step before realizing you have no idea how to get to the guest wing.

"Alfred can give you directions." Bruce says without looking away from the massive monitor.

"Right." Following the path of stairways the other took you find a small but impressive platform full of medical equipment, Robin and Artemis chatting while Alfred throws away a pair of rubber gloves. "Alfred? I need directions to the guest wing. Somebody waiting to see me there I guess."

"Ah. Yes. If you'll just follow me, I'll show you one of many entrances." Following the Butler, he brings you to a set of sliding metal doors that open up with a scan of his palm. This leads into a spiral staircase, which leads to an elevator, which leads to a another hidden door. That is disguised by a grandfather clock in what you believe is the foyer, of Wayne Manor. Holy shit.

Alfred leads you with the ease of someone that knows every single corner of the huge building. Taking you to a door that has the muffled sounds of what sounds like a tv commercial coming through it. "I do hope the young miss appreciates your presence, she can be... quite difficult to entertain." He pushes the door open and announces you. "Miss Morse, a Mister Barret is here to see you."

Stepping into the well lit room you see a girl, deep red hair, pale skin, floating a good three feet of the floor, legs crossed. She turns and light's up like christmas tree when she sees you. "Morgan! It feels like it's been much longer than the three weeks, two days and 16 hours since I saw you last! It's good to see you here!"

M'gann looks much better than the last time you saw her. She's perked up a lot. She's wearing a yellow sun dress despite the the season and a big smile is plastered on her face.

>"Umm, yeah. Good to see you too M'gann. How long you been here?">"Morse? You changing your name now?">"Bruce has got you hiding in here? What about getting you back home?">"Wait a sec. You know my real name?">Write In?

M'gann silences herself, putting putting hands over her mouth in a strange cartoonish way of showing surprise. "Oh no! I did it again. I need more practice."

"Did what now?"

"Read your mind silly. It's how Martians communicate with each other." She says it like you should've known that already. "I'm afraid I may have picked up your name on reflex." She bashfully scratches the back of her head. Having the decency to be embarrassed about stealing your secret identity on accident. "And maybe where you live too..."

You blink, carefully picking your next words. "Okay, no more of that. I'm sure Dick told you that it's wrong, at the very least rude to go around just liftin' shit from peoples' brains."

"Yes. Yes. I apologize. I will ask first before communicating telepathically in the future." She bows her head while still floating in midair and you can't help but chuckle at the sight. "Oh, yes! I also must tell you. "I've finally made contact with my uncle! J'onn J'onns. But you know him as Martain Manhunter."

You shouldn't be surprised at this point. The only two martians on earth (as far as you know) and they're related. "That guy? Never met him, but if the JL vouches for him and if he's anything like you then he must be cool. He gonna take you back home?"

"About that." She starts twirling her fingertips around her hair. Seemingly looking for the right words. "I came to earth on purpose. Hive just happened to capture me before I could catch up to Uncle J'onn."

Oh, you're starting to get a clearer picture now. "So, then you don't wanna leave?"

"No. In fact, I wanted to ask you something." She takes a moment to breathe and steels herself. "Can I join the Teen Titans?"

>"Whoa whoa, what makes you qualified to join a superteam?">"Hey, wait a sec this is Robin's team. Besides, this sorta thing should be a vote.">"What? No way! You were getting captured by shadowy organizations a month ago.">"I think the most important I could ask right now, is why?">Write In?

>>2184817"You wanna join the Teen Titans? Really?" She just nods in her usual enthusiastic way, as per usual. "Okay, I feel like the most important thing to ask here is, why?"

And that actually makes her deflate a bit. Her feet touching back to the floor. "I umm... On Mars, I was alone pretty often. But we can pick up on signals from Earth! What's really popular is earthling television. I grew up watching a lot of it. And also watching Uncle J'onn and people like Batman save the day, and help people, and, and-" Her eyes turn to the floor as her skin slowly changes shades back to her natural mint green. "I want to be like them. And maybe help people like me feel less alone."

You can barely look her in the eye yourself at this point. Wow. "Well, I asked for a reason. And hell if that ain't as good as any. Or better, really."

"Oh thank you, Morgan! You won't regret it I-"

You hold up a hand, practically physically holding her excitement down. "I didn't say yes or no yet. This is Robin's team. This sorta thing should be a vote anyways."

She tries to hide her pouting, and does a terrible job at it. "Oh, well okay. I totally can't wait to hear back!"

"Mhm, I'll bring it up later, after we both get some shut eye. It's been a long ass night." You can't stop the yawn you feel coming on and M'gann just slaps her forehead in realization.

"Hello Megan! You must be so tired. Here, have seat. This sin't really my room anyway." She floats back up and guides you to one of the nearby couches that's probably worth more than your house.

"Yeah, thanks. I just haven't gotten a chance to slow down yet." As soon as you sit your body starts relaxing and shutting down for some Zs. M'gann gently floats down next to you as you drift off. Leaving you thinking about quite a few things as your mind preps for sleep. The fate of Man-Bat's victims, the whereabouts of Freeze's wife Nora, the face you saw in the flames. And maybe even how M'gann smells so nice.

If anyone is checking up on this thread. I'll be running tomorrow at a later time than usual. 4 PM. I'm hoping to run at a better time for people busy during the day. We really should get more than one session out a thread.

Sometimes you wonder about shit like fate. Your life was pretty damn normal up until about a year and a half ago. Dad was killed. No. Murdered. And your powers came up for the first time. You lost some time when that happened. Hours. A couple of hours where you might as well not have existed. It still sends chills down your spine when you think about it. Which isn't much.

But you go from some kid on the street with good parents to a vigilante with a single mom in less than a year? Life comes at you fast, you guess. And now with everything that's going on this town you're not sure if you can even keep up. Between the kidnapping of Freeze's wife, the FIrefly and Killer Moth goon combo, and Black Mask ordering god knows what from inside of his cell. You might be stretched thin before you know it.

Hell, and that's not even counting your leads from the Titans mission. Which Robin still hasn't gotten back to you on. You guess he's just as busy, if not busier than you. He does everything you do and he's the leader of this team. But it could be a lot worse. You've seen Bruce's most wanted screen in the Batcave and there's some real monsters on that list. Man-Bat was on it so you can cross that out.

But then there's people like this Bane guy who's apparently one of the greatest fighters in the world. Not to mention that Clayface guy... thing. But then there's the one that's been bothering you. What about the clo-

A snap of someones fingers next to your ear nearly makes you drop your fork in surprise. "Hello? You in there? Unless I missed something you definitely want the food on your fork, to make it into your mouth."

"Yeah. Um-sorry mom. Just thinking about school stuff." Well, NOW you're thinking about school stuff. Like how you're gonna get that paper done in time when it's due today. Goddamn Man-Bat stole all of your attention.

She just smiles her knowing smile. Something all moms have you think. But your certain she doesn't know what you're really worried about. "Careful Morgan, spend too much time in the clouds and you'll forget about the important things down on earth."

Nodding, you swallow a forkful of warm waffle. Still good. And try not to think about the supervillains of Gotham and beyond while you eat.

>"Huh, can't remember the last time you felt like waffles. What's the occasion?">"Hey so, how is it down at the lab? You haven't talked about it much lately.">"Oh yeah, so I forgot to run this by you. Do your think it'd be okay if Ted taught me how to drive?">"This might seem outta left field mom but, what do you make of Batman?">Write In?

>>2197716You'd really rather not talk about school right now. Add the hero work is obviously off the table. Which leaves one thing. Time for some small talk. "So, mom, hows everything down at the lab? You haven't really talked about it much lately." You are curious about this though. Really.

She finishes her deep sip of coffee before answering. She's really enjoying the morning today. "Oh it's as fine as I could hope really. I'm not working on the things I'd like to, but I accepted that when we decided to move out here. And I think it was a good move. You're going to a much better school, this house isn't falling apart like the old one. And someone, not mentioning names, may be in line for a promotion at a certain lab..."

Now that makes you swallow your waffles in a hurry. "Really mom?! Hell yeah! Bout time right?"

She laughs at your enthusiasm but waves you down. "Calm down now, it's just a possibility for now. These things take time, and there will undoubtedly be tests."

"Thanks sweetie." Oh, and while we're talking about work, there's something I want you to know." Her voice turns much more serious, hushed even. "There was a break-in at the labs."

"Aw sh- uh, crap. What'd they take? Did this happen while you were at work?"

"No no, it all happened early in the morning, after midnight. As for the other details, sorry Morgan, all I can say is that there was a break in. I wanted you to know because the streets might get more than a little more dangerous. And, well because I don't want to feel like I have to hide anything from you." She picks up her keys and tucks a newly cleaned labcoat under her arm as she makes for the door.

At least she doesn't do this to you in public. "Mom, come on! Not even close."

She only grins as she gets ready to get in the car for her morning drive. "Y'know, you're pretty bad at this whole rebellious teen thing. Whats up?"

Moment of truth. "I talked with him about it already. So I just need to run it by you. Do you think It'd be okay if Ted taught me how to drive?"

She stops for a moment, only taking a second to tie up that dark curly hair you share. "Well, judging by how rode that bike he must know what he's doing. Okay. You have to learn sometime and I'm pretty busy. Just remember. Takes no risks when driving, there's a lot of nuts out there. Stay safe son. Bye!"

She's more right than she knows, really. Wolfing down the rest of your lukewarm waffles, you throw your blue blazer over your shoulder and step into the old boots. Time to hit the other side of your responsibilities.

-----

Gotham Academy is pretty much the same as ever, even after the flight of Bat-Men. Although, it's all anyone want's to talk about. Did you see em flying around? Did you get a picture" My best friend's cousin's uncle got infected, I swear! So on and so forth. You also hear a few people talking about Firefly's rampage. And you. Nothing to concrete. Most refer to you as some smoky guy or the cloudy dude. You even overhear someone that mistook your for Batman.

Then you hear it. You almost don't believe it when you do. But there it is. "Yeah, that guy. His look is real retro huh? Heard in the forums he calls himself Grey Ghost. Like that ancient tv show. Wonder if someone that has no identity can get sued..."

And that's it. You're out there now, people recognize you. Every time you slip a little deeper into this world it feels so surreal. You nearly spend most of your morning in a daze, it took a while to realize Artemis isn't here today. Maybe she wanted to sleep off her injuries from last night? YOu don't blame her. You're still carrying plenty of bumps and scrapes. Aw well. Now then, you're up for your free period. Okay, Barret. You've got a paper to finish up and about an hour to kill.

>Hit that paper and hit it hard.>You think Barbara has a free period here too, let's bug her.>See what Dick is up to.>Goof off and wander the school a bit.>Maybe Blondie wouldn't mind >Write-In?

>>2198042Y'know what? You're pretty sure Barbara had a free period now too. Maybe she'll be willing to lend you a few braincells to help with this paper. And you can bug her after. You get pretty bored nowadays with a whole hour of nothing. So you don't linger in the wooded halls for long, you head straight for what's more than likely where'd you'd find the red-headed vigilante. The library.

Namely, on her trusty laptop, in the library. It's as quiet as can be in here. The stone faced librarian only nods as you pass by. An unspoken expectation of you to shut the hell up. Doesn't take long to spot Barbara's head amongst the smattering of students in here studying or just catching up on some reading. You pop a squat in the seat next to her and she actually jolts a little, reaching for her belt. "Whoa, easy there texas. Don't shoot."

"Oh, dang. I'm sorry Morgan. Work last night was brutal. Keeping up with all those people, flying around. I almost got bit a couple of times. Guess I'm still on edge."

You lean back and get yourself comfortable as you break out the pen and paper. "Everybody's drained. I usually get an annoying text from Dick in the mornings but all I got today was a grunt through his eggmcmuffin."

Her hands resume typing but she keeps talking. "You should've seen him after this case we worked on where Penguin was distributing some kind of super drug. He likes to exercise to clear his head, Bruce and I found him hanging from his ankles on the high bar. Snoring!"

"Ain't sleeping upside down a bat thing? I'll remember that one. Anyways. I got some work of my own to do, and I was wondering if you could help speed up the process. Words ain't really my thing."

>>2198218Barbara goes over your paper quietly while continue to jot down your ideas for the latter half. Soon, she snaps her fingers. "I know just the thing to get you an A. We'll just-"

And then, sirens blare. The shrill sound of the ancient fire alarm bells cause everyone in the library to jump. You and Barbara included. You're about to complain about a fire drill during your free period, but then, things get worse. The automatic sprinkler systems come to life and everyone inside is drenched near instantly.

You can practically feel the frustration coming off Barbara as she tries to stow away her brick of a laptop in her backpack before it gets too soaked. As for your traditionally written paper? You don't even bother picking up the wet mess from the library desk. You and Barbara stick together as you and everyone else crowds around the exit to the library. Only for you to see the out hallway is completely dry.

A wave of complaints and disbelief comes over the small crows your with. And you have to admit. You're feeling pretty shat on right about now. "What the hell was that? This ancient sprinkler system just gave me an F"

Barbara looks more irritated than down. "You're telling me. It's gonna take all night to recover what's on this drive if I lost it. Here, Morgan can you hold this for a second while I get the wet hair of out my face?"

"Sure thing." Hefting the bag over your shoulder you realize lugging this thing around is it's own form of training. "Why don't we head outside. It's a clear day. And hey, for once you're more likely to get wet than outside in Gotham"

"True enough. And besides. I think I can still help you out." You hear some students whisper your name as you break away from the crowd but you ignore it. You learned years ago in school that talk is just that. Though, what they'd be saying about you is kinda beyond you. Once you and Barbara find a comfy table outside she pull out her laptop and from her reaction it seems like it survived the surprise shower.

"Alright. Now we have all we need to recreate your paper. Just give me about another hour and I can email it to you. Oh, I'll need your email too."

"Hold up, just how are you gonna recreate that? I didn't back that up anywhere, just pencil and paper." You know she's smart but, c'mon.

>>2198413"We never got much of a chance to talk huh? Well, behold. The secret to my success." She dramatically points straight to her forehead.When you simply raise an eyebrow in response she chuckles and elaborates. "I've got an eidetic memory. Simply put, my brain stores everything like a computer. So I can just re-type everything you had. Even if you don't remember it."

Your shaking your head to get the water out of your hair but you'd be shaking it in disbelief if you weren't. "Damn. That's one helluva talent for someone in uh- our field to have."

"Yep! It's saved my butt on more than one occasion. So um- Morgan?"

"Yeah?" Oh shit some water is sitting in your boots too!

"I just wanted to say something about the situation last night. I don't think I would've found the anti-agent so fast without your input. I wanted to say how impressed I was. And... to say sorry."

"For?"

"I kinda jumped to conclusions about you. Robin told me where you came from and I just kind of assumed I'd have to solve that puzzle on my own. That you'd be of no help on my part. It was silly. And stupid." She stops typing just for a moment to look you in the eye. "Sorry."

>"How could I be mad with you owning up to it like that? No harm done.">"Hey, I can be pretty damn nerdy when I so please!">"Pfft, thought you were better than judgements like that. Guess I was wrong too.">"Fine by me. I'm used to people thinking they know me.">Write-In?

>>2198538Damn. Did it get quiet around here? "Hey hey, I'll have you know I can be plenty nerdy when I damn well please!"

Your proclamation actually does manage to get a chuckle out of her. "I saw that! So, we're good then?"

"Hell yeah, I mean, how can I be mad when you owned it like that. You didn't mean it to be like that. So yeah, no harm done." The scent of water hits your nose and you look up to see that a good number of clouds have muscled in on your clear sky. Damn, Seattle ain't got shit on Gotham.

"I'm glad to hear that. Now I've gotta work extra hard on your recreation. Just to say thanks. Oh! And maybe a welcome present now that you're on the team? No, that;s kind of a crappy welcome gift huh? I'll figure something out."

You take a good quick look around to be sure before you start talking about 'work'. "So, speaking of the team. Has Bruce always been so-"

"Slow to trust? Short with people? Paranoid?"

"I'll take any of those yes."

Barbara takes another short break from typing to flex her fingers. "I shouldn't talk about him that way, honestly. We all have our issues. To tell the truth, he's exactly as I picture the man behind Batman."

"How so?"

"Pockets as deep as the grand canyon for starters, but what I really think makes him is his drive. He never stops for anything. That and- well, that's not my story to tell. Ugh, and just listen to me, I'm not trying to scare you off. I'd never take back being Batgirl."

"I feel you on that, my life has changed a lot but this is where I wanna be."

And that's that. The next half an hour or so fly by in comfortable silence. You just kinda watch the rainclouds gather and threaten to rain on your parade but it never comes. Hell, you even start picking out shapes right before Barbara taps your shoulder. "Free period is about to end so I'll catch you later. I'll have that paper emailed to asap!"

So you both start scooping up your junk to head to class. "Hey, thanks the help Barbara."

"Anytime! Oh, and my friends call me Babs." Once, your contact info is swapped your on your way, expecting a to be given a hard time from MacPherson but all the same, you've got a smile on your face.

>>2198709Babs made good on her promise. The paper was emailed back to you just before History class was over. And she did you one better. She finished the damn thing! Of course, since you're a good student and you value academic integrity, you kept your damn mouth shut and sent the completed work to MacPherson for grading. And there was a little message attached.

>Don't let MacPherson get you down, she's tough but cool.

Easy for her to say, you don't imagine she gets that icy teacher glare of hers very often. Or how she's starts talkin' all fast when she's angry. With that accent, english becomes an alien language only spoken by beings with three tongues. At any rate. Your school day is over and you're free. Your first bus leaves you and as your walking to the second bus you realize that you could take the other bus down the street and make for the gym.

>Eh, you feel like you haven't been there in days. Spend some actually time doing what Ted pays you to.>Naw, you're gonna get on patrol. If Batman could do it all himself, he wouldn't let three teenagers hang around.>Might as well, just go home for once. Mom is already back.>Write-In?

>>2198796It's only been one night but after what you went through last night it feels like you haven't been to the gym in days. Doing a quick heel turn, you head for the second bus that'll take you by Grant's Gym. It'll feel good to turn your brain off and do some work, catch up on your exercise a little bit and actually do what Ted pays you to do. One quick bus ride later you're striding through the double doors of the old building.

Ted isn't hard to spot with his towering frame. You see him spotting a man lifting some of the heavier weights, keeping a watchful eye on him. He notices you with a glance as you walk up. "Hey kid, heard you went through ringer last night. Big fight?"

The words Man-Bat actually almost come out of your mouth but you take a moment and rephrase. "It was, biggest fight of my career so far. And it was a team effort. He brought somethin' out at the end there, thought he had me. But your training didn't let me down."

Ted actually cracks a smile. "That's what I like t o hear kid, some good ol' grit can take you far." He spares a moment to actually look you up and down before he goes back to helping his client. "I'm assuming your still up for your normal duties?"

"Oh yeah, just lemme get changed." And so, a normal night at the gym was had. You're honestly surprised as the hours whittle down that no emergencies come up. No high profile mishaps or incidents on your police scanner app. No police sirens. Well, no more than usual. And certainly no giant pack of flying mutants. You cleaned machines took payment from customers and swept the floors until closing time.

It was honestly just what you hoped it might be. A nice little break from the usual. Which means your usual has become bad guys and vigilantism, but hey, you'd rather not think about that right now. Just as you're locking the front doors and flipping the sign around. Ted emerges from his small office. "You're just in time Ted. Remember your promise to teach me how to drive? My mom gave me the go ahead."

The old boxers bones pop audibly as he stretches. "I don't recall promising anything. But hell kid, I said I'd train ya. And I'd say this counts. So lets hit the garage."

>>2198900When you and Ted go out, he doesn't put you at the handlebars quite yet. First he takes you to a nearby mostly empty parking lot to show you the ropes. Which button and switch does what, when to do certain things, when not to do them, how to keep your balance when riding. So on and so forth. You honestly almost surprise yourself with how fast you take to the basics. Your driving, albeit kind of slowly, back and forth across lot in just about an hour.

That's when Ted decided to kick it up a notch and take you on some not so busy streets. And you aced that too. Granted,m you can't go to fast but you picked up the easy parts so fast, you figure you'll have your license as soon as your old enough. But until then, you'll just have to settle for a learners permit. You wonder briefly if Babs picked up one, she seems like the type. Always prepared.

By the time you hit the gym again, you and Ted are just laughing about the progress you've made. "You're a natural kid! You keep that up, and we'll have you on a stunt bike in no time."

Though his smiles drops the instant he pushes his key into the front door and it just swings open. Someone is in here. Ted immediately changes, steps in front of you and yells into the gym. "If you're still here, and I have to come find you. You're gonna be sorry."

But a familiar voice calls back. "Sorry. Just me."

Ted quickly fumbles to turn the lights and on and the low lighting reveals Blondie, sitting on the floor, back against the wall. You and Ted rush over, and he begins giving her a once over immediately. Must be nice to have years of muscle memory to rely on.

Needless to say, you're a little lost. "Artemis? What in the hell happened to you? Were you on patrol? Why didn't you call for help?"

"Couldn't. I was caught off guard. I just had to focus on escaping was I got found out." She hisses in pain when Ted applies some kind of salve to her injuries. "I'm sorry, I just, I had to go alone."

Were not gonna get anywhere with you being that vague. "Where Artemis, where were you tonight?"

She clearly doesn't wanna say, she can't stop glancing at Ted's face. But she finally spits it out just when you're thinking she won't. "I went check out one our leads from the Titans mission. I went to Metabrawl."

Before you can even ask what it is Ted stands up, looks at you both, and walks off to his office. Of course, he didn't say anything. But you've seen that face before. He looks like he's seen a ghost.

>End of Session

Alright guys, hope you enjoyed! I've been wanting to get this Metabrawl Arc started for a while. How's the social links part of this feeling to you? I'll be around for questions as always.

>>2199096>what were the people at school whispering aboutWell, Morgan of course. I won't be more specific but I'll say that Morgan is starting to get noticed. Whether or not you want that remains to be seen

But you know highschool talk. It could be nothing. Or something. But I'm hoping that you find it entertaining regardless.

Hopefully it's about his attractiveness and he's just not at all aware of it.

'Cause now I'm getting the idea of his Mom being the one to explain to him "Dude, how did you not notice all these girls hitting on you and stuff?" and then Morgan finally realizes how oblivious he's been.